Gov. Jerry Brown signs bill to streamline teacher firings

SACRAMENTO -- Gov. Jerry Brown on Wednesday signed into law AB 215, which is aimed at making it easier for districts to discipline or dismiss teachers, especially those accused of egregious misconduct.

The bill by Assemblywoman Joan Buchanan, D-Alamo, streamlines the discipline and appeals process by expediting and prioritizing cases of serious misconduct, those involving sexual abuse, child abuse and certain drug offenses. It fast-tracks all other dismissal appeals.

Tom Torlakson, state Superintendent of Public Instruction, said in a prepared statement that he and many other education advocates supported the bill.

“The measure saves time and money, preserves due process rights, and -- most importantly -- gives schools an important tool to help keep children safe,” he said.